The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Robert F. Sellers, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the Submarine U.S.S. S-31 (SS-136), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 13 October 1942 to 8 November 1942, in enemy controlled waters. On 26 October 1942, Lieutenant Sellers boldly directed his submarine into an enemy harbor off Paramushiro, Kurils, maneuvering it into firing position, and sank a 3,500-ton Japanese minelayer which was lying at anchor. His gallant actions and fearless leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.